About this project
The Project
I am asking for support to obtain the wood compression machine so that we can reduce our carbon footprint by sourcing locally fallen trees and reducing our use of resources. My desire is to design and share unique and sustainable handcrafted pieces with those who connect to the material and the work.
WOOD COMPRESSION MACHINE
Obtaining the machine would be sustainable in the following ways:
>Source Locally, Save Trees With the machine in Chicago, it would be possible to use wood that would have already been taken down for construction or by natural processes.
>Reduce Resources As it is, the wood I use is sourced from the Midwest, then shipped out west to Washington, compressed and shipped back for use. With the machine in Chicago, we would cut down shipping and create a more streamline and sustainable process.
>Reduce Wood Waste Wood is one of our greatest resources, it has provided shelter, warmth and tools for thousands of years. The compressed wood allows me to reduce the amount of cut off or waste that is produced to create my work. Which means, less wood on the floor and more to use!
>Eliminate Use of Chemicals and Glues Traditional methods of bending wood require harmful chemicals and glues, with compressed wood chemicals and glues are not used, therefore creating a healthier work environment.
Intrigued by the nature of wood, I found myself wanting to explore all the possibilities of the material. A new line of work manifested. The work focused more on contemporary wood jewelry and design. Eco-conscious principles and the effort to preserve the natural beauty of wood are fundamental to each of my new pieces.
My deep appreciation for nature’s beauty inspired research and development which led me to an innovative process of compressing wood. The compression allows me to handle the wood in ways I never thought possible. For me, It was like discovering that the earth is round and not flat. I get up every morning excited to use this ancient material in completely new ways!
I'm working on a Table Design design. The Table illustrates the innovative properties of the compressed wood through the curves that maintain structural integrity. It illustrates the significance of reducing material waste that previously required many resources. With the machine, projects like the table will become a reality, giving the world alternative products that represent their own eco-conscious values.
The Kickstarter Rewards offer a glimpse into the endless possibilities that will be available with the machine. The very best part is that not only will these products be possible but they will be created in an eco-conscious way.
The Bookmark Mark your page with a handmade Wooden Bookmark and protect an endangered specie - books.
The One of a Kind Salvaged Wood Keychain This handmade keychain will be a reminder of my gratitude and the amazing properties of compressed wood!
Kickstarter Exclusive Petal Earrings Adorn your ears with the Kickstarter Petal Earring. Only available in Limited Edition wood on Kickstarter!
Kickstarter Exclusive Circle Brooch The simple circle of bent wood defies all previous notions of what wood could ever do! The piece is handmade at my studio with stainless steel and a Limited Edition wood.
Feel the Bend Pack For a donation of $150, you will receive a compressed wood starter pack so you can experience the amazing properties of bendable wood! You will also receive a "Thank You" card and a listing on my website "Sponsor" page!
The Kickstarter Exclusive Organic Coil Bracelet The Organic Coil is a solid undulating piece of wood that elegantly hugs the wrist. Limited Edition wood will only available on Kickstarter.
GR Luxe Lamp Large & Small Adorn your home with the GR Home Luxe Lamp. An elegantly simple form that provides subtle accent lighting. Choose from two designs, Large and Small.
Very special thanks to the Video creator:
Maren Wickwire of Manifest Media.
A big thank you to the musicians featured in the video who donated the use of their music.
Abscondo: Dreamscape, Jahzzar: Going to, Gentleforce: Our last day together
Risks and challenges
My first business, Simply Wood Rings was founded in 2005. Through hard work and my resourceful nature I have seen substantial growth in this business each year as well as founding and growing my second line Gustav Reyes.
My current shop is fully functioning and able to complete the demands of Kickstarter Incentives and orders following the campaign. However, I foresee challenges arising in regards to the machine from the logistics of moving it from Washington to independently operating and maintaining it. One way we will cut down on some of the challenges is to bring the distributor to Chicago to train me and my assistant on the ins and outs of operating the machine.
I am confident in my abilities to overcome any challenges that may arise and I have a good team to assist in problem solving. I am already seeing great interest in the Table, this is a great reassurance that I am on the right path.
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Funding period
- (30 days)